‘Deadpool’ Movie Is Officially Happening, Lands February 2016 Release

The "Merc with a Mouth" is finally coming to the big screen. After test footage of Ryan Reynolds doing his thing as the sword-wielding comic book figure surfaced online, 20th Century Fox announced that a 'Deadpool' movie will indeed be made, further spinning off the 'X-Men' cinematic universe. But the key question now remains is, will Reynolds himself officially pick up the reins once again? Short answer: probably.

There has been much speculation as to whether or not Fox would get around to making a 'Deadpool' movie, and Reynolds and director Tim Miller have strung us along for quite some time. However, the studio behind the 'X-Men' franchise has now revealed that a 'Deadpool' spinoff is officially in development and coming to theaters on February 12, 2016.

Reynolds, who first appeared as the loud-mouthed mercenary in 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine,' has been presumed to return to the role, and the actor has even said the film would probably happen with him in the lead. According to Variety, however, no deal has officially been struck between Fox and the actor, though it seems likely he'll return.

Tim Miller, who's been attached to the project for a while, has been confirmed to direct 'Deadpool,' and 'X-Men' franchise crew member Lauren Shuler Donner will produce. When last we heard from Miller, he had said, "we’re just waiting for the studio to embrace what an amazingly f—ing awesome film this would be. Ryan is ready, I am ready, the fans are more than ready, we just need that elusive green light."

Reynolds had also implied that fan support for a 'Deadpool' movie helped make it happen, saying:

The movie has been in a state of limbo for a while. There was such an overpowering reaction to the footage, you sort of feel like, 'Oh, so we weren't crazy for our reasons for loving this character, for loving this role.' It's interesting to see the power of the internet. It's awe-inspiring, actually. And it's neat that Twitter and Facebook and Instagram can move mountains when used in the right way.

There you have it, Marvelites. 2016 is going to be one helluva year, what with 'Batman vs. Superman' on March 25, 'Captain America 3' on May 6, 'X-Men: Apocalypse' on May 27, 'Doctor Strange' on July 8, the Josh Trank-directed 'Star Wars' spinoff film, and 'Deadpool' rounding out the ranks.